Spike in Domestic Violence During Covid-19 Restrictions

With the recent closure of schools and businesses, where many have been asked to stay home to stem the spread of Covid-19, health officials are concerned about an uptick in domestic violence. Calls from victims of domestic violence are not only increasing in volume, but intensity of distress levels and courthouses across the nation have seen a spike in requests for orders for protection just over the last week.

Quarantines, shelter in place, and work from home measures can put victims of domestic violence in a situation where they feel trapped when they may have otherwise been able to limit exposure to abuse when a spouse or partner was working outside of the home. Victims may be subject to increased, unrelenting levels of physical and emotional violence with no way out – a powder keg set to explode.

Although some courthouses and police stations have closed temporarily due to Covid-19, domestic abuse services remain available to victims and their families. Domestic abuse advocates and family law professionals stand poised to support victims of domestic violence, especially during this unprecedented time where victims and their children may be particularly vulnerable to abuse.

It can be especially isolating and frightening for victims of domestic violence who may feel utterly trapped under shelter in place orders or stay at home advisories. If you are in danger, call 911 for immediate assistance. If you need legal representation to secure a protective order or temporary orders for child or spousal support or just need someone to talk to regarding what options exist to protect you and your children from an abusive spouse, contact the Lake county law offices of Schlesinger & Strauss LLC to discuss your situation with one of our experienced family law attorneys at 847-680-4970.